Question

Mr. Watson from the scenario in RRD#1 admits that he has lately "fallen off the wagon" and has begun drinking heavily again. Lab results show high serum liver enzyme levels (note: serum liver enzyme levels increase when the liver is damaged. Don't get this liver enzyme test confused with the P450 enzyme system of the liver) and low serum protein level. Which is likely true?

Answer 1

Elevated serum liver enzymes such as GGT, ALP, ALT and AST, alongside a low serum protein level, suggest that Mr. Watson is experiencing liver damage likely due to heavy alcohol consumption.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient admits to heavy drinking, elevated serum liver enzyme levels such as gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), and a low serum protein level are cause for concern. GGT is particularly sensitive to alcohol toxicity and can be elevated with liver dysfunction. Similarly, liver function tests often include measuring enzymes like alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), indicating liver status and organ damage. A low serum protein level, particularly albumin, may indicate chronic liver dysfunction, as the liver is the site for protein synthesis. Therefore, in Mr. Watson's case, it is likely true that he is experiencing liver damage due to heavy drinking, as indicated by his lab results showing high liver enzymes and low serum protein levels.